“‘there is a specimen of crinum asiaticum.’”
I expostulated. I said:
“You mustn’t go plucking curiosities here, Jefferson, or you will get us all into hot water.”
“Dat’s right, massa,” he replied. “Me an’ de boss garner great ole frens. De ladies jus’ say what dey like, an’ Jefferson pick him off for dem.”
He was as good as his word, and a fine theatrical display followed, as our party grew gradually bolder and bolder, and our guide, evidently upon his mettle, complied with each request in turn.
I will cast a fragment of the dialogue and action in dramatic form, so that you may the better judge of and picture that wild scene.
The Enchantress (timidly): Should you think we might have this tiny flower?
Jefferson: I pick him, missy. (Does so.)
The Doctor: I wonder if they’d miss one of those red things? They’ve got a good number. I believe they’re medicinal. Should you think——?
(Jefferson picks two of the flowers in question. The Doctor takes heart.)